3.1 Each competitors' ability over 200, 500 or 1000 metres is time banded according to speed, age and gender.

3.2 Initially a competitors' time band is defined according to the time recorded by a coach over the relevent distance - 200, 500 or 1000 metres.

3.3 Any competitor who achieves a higher time band than that in which they entered will automatically be promoted to the higher time band for future events.

3.4 Anyone seeking demotion to a lower time band must apply to the Paddle-Ability Co-ordinator. Demotion would normally only occur after at least one session at a higher time band or for special reasons.

3.5 Any competitor entering an event without a previous time will be seeded by the competition organiser. The time achieved in that first event will be the basis for the competitiors' future time band.